Students' Perspectives

(Please add a Pro or Con: edit the text by clicking the Edit tab in the top right corner, making changes on the page, and then clicking the Save button in the tool bar.)

Pros

allows students to show what they know
offers students a chance to refine test taking skills
gives them a sense of closure and accomplishment (does it?)
It is private. The marks are mailed home. I don't have to present or perform in front of the class.
It doesn't count on my report card.

Cons

puts pressure on students to perform
promotes comparisons between students / ranks students
discounts important skills necessary in 'real life' application of skills to accomplish a larger project or goal
Might not be given in a format that aligns with how a student learns best or can demonstrate their knowledge (emphasized a certain type of learning style while excluding other learning styles)
by focusing on a particular knowledge base ("marginalizes subjects"), there is potential to overlook and exclude other areas of student interest
takes time away from other things I like to do at school
I can't remember a thing when I open up that test booklet!
I stayed up all night studying for the finals in high school!